U.S. patent application number 16/419960 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-26 for automated cooking system.
The applicant listed for this patent is MUGU, Inc.. Invention is credited to Marcel Botha, Simon Ellison, Michael Wang.
Application Number | 20200372589 16/419960 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004125751 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200372589 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wang; Michael ; et
al. |
November 26, 2020 |
AUTOMATED COOKING SYSTEM
Abstract
A cooking assembly can include a cooking vessel, a mixer, and a
motor. The cooking vessel can include a bottom contact portion
including a first bore therethrough, a heating portion spaced above
the bottom contact portion and including a second bore
therethrough, and a sidewall connected to the heating portion and
together with the heating portion configured to retain food in the
cooking vessel. The mixer can be located within the cooking vessel,
where the mixer configured to rotate relative to the heating
portion. The motor can be connected to the mixer via the first bore
and the second bore to drive the mixer to rotate.
Inventors: |
Wang; Michael; (New York,
NY) ; Botha; Marcel; (Brooklyn, NY) ; Ellison;
Simon; (Brooklyn, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MUGU, Inc. |
Massapequa |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004125751 |
Appl. No.: |
16/419960 |
Filed: |
May 22, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47J 36/165 20130101;
G06Q 50/12 20130101; G05B 2219/2643 20130101; G05B 19/0423
20130101; A47J 2202/00 20130101; A47J 27/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 50/12 20060101
G06Q050/12; A47J 27/14 20060101 A47J027/14; G05B 19/042 20060101
G05B019/042 |
Claims
1. A method of operating an automated cooking system, the method
comprising: receiving, from a point of sale device, a food order at
an automated cooking system including a housing; heating a cooking
vessel connected to the housing using an induction heating device
positioned within the housing proximate the cooking vessel; heating
the cooking vessel using a radiant heater connected to a lid that
is connected to the heating vessel, when the lid is in a closed
position; and producing an alert when cooking the food order is
complete.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein heating the cooking vessel is
controlled by a controller configured to operate the induction
heater and the radiant heater.
3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, an intensity of inductive heat based on the food
order; and heating the cooking vessel at the intensity of inductive
heat.
4. The method of claim 2, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, an intensity of radiant heat based on the food
order; and heating the cooking vessel at the intensity of radiant
heat.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: applying convective
heat to the cooking vessel using a convection heater located within
the housing and configured to deliver hot air to the cooking
vessel.
6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, an intensity of inductive heat based on the food
order; and heating the cooking vessel at the intensity of inductive
heat.
7. The method of claim 5, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, an amount of time to apply each of the convective
heat, the inductive heat, and the radiant heat, based on the food
order.
8. The method of claim 2, further comprising: mixing, using a mixer
positioned within the cooking vessel, food within the cooking
vessel; and operating a motor located within the housing to drive
the mixer based on the food order.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, a mixing time based on the food order.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, a mixing rotational direction based on the food
order; and mixing the food in the mixing rotational direction and
for the mixing time.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, rotational direction interval based on the food
order.
12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: varying mixing
rotational direction of the mixer over time.
13. The method of claim 2, further comprising: receiving the food
order at an intermediary computer system.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: selecting, at
intermediate system, an available automated cooking system from a
plurality of automated cooking systems; and assigning the food
order to the available automated cooking system.
15. The method of claim 13, further comprising: receiving the food
order at a storage system.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: enabling an
indicator of a compartment or a plurality of compartments within
the storage system based on the food order, the indicator to
indicate to a user a food item to be selected.
17. The method of claim 2, further comprising: transmitting the
order from the point of sale device to the intermediary system.
18. The method of claim 2, further comprising: determining, using
the controller, an intensity of inductive heat based on the food
order; heating the cooking vessel at the intensity of inductive
heat; determining, using the controller, an intensity of radiant
heat based on the food order; heating the cooking vessel at the
intensity of radiant heat; applying convective heat to the cooking
vessel using a convection heater located within the housing and
configured to deliver hot air to the cooking vessel. determining,
using the controller, an intensity of inductive heat based on the
food order; heating the cooking vessel at the intensity of
inductive heat; determining, using the controller, an amount of
time to apply each of the convective heat, the inductive heat, and
the radiant heat, based on the food order. mixing, using a mixer
positioned within the cooking vessel, food within the cooking
vessel; operating a motor located within the housing to drive the
mixer based on the food order; determining, using the controller, a
mixing time based on the food order. determining, using the
controller, a mixing rotational direction based on the food order;
mixing the food in the mixing rotational direction and for the
mixing time; determining, using the controller, rotational
direction interval based on the food order; and varying mixing
rotational direction of the mixer over time.
19. A method of operating an automated cooking system, the method
comprising: receiving, from a point of sale device, an order
including a list of ingredients; receiving, from a scanner, a code
indicative of a first food item added to a cooking vessel removably
connected to a housing of the cooking system; applying inductive
heat to heat the cooking vessel using an induction heating device
positioned within the housing proximate the cooking vessel;
applying radiant heat to the radiant heater connected to the lid,
the radiant heater configured to transfer radiant heat toward the
cooking vessel when the lid is in the closed position.
20. The automated cooking system of claim 19, further comprising:
introducing, automatically, one or more ingredients to the cooking
vessel using a programmably controlled conveyor.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Foods sold at diners, restaurants, and fast food restaurants
may require a relatively large amount of labor to prepare and
deliver cooked food to a customer. Often, to prepare a dish,
ingredients must be unpackaged by hand, measured by hand, and
combined into a cooking apparatus, such as a pan, fryer, or oven. A
chef or cook then often attends to the food during the cooking
process before transferring the food to a plate or serving
container. In some cases, a food expeditor (expo) may add garnishes
and finalize preparations before delivery to a customer by a server
or cashier. The resulting food must be delivered to be served while
it is still fresh.
[0002] The Chinese food service industry requires a relatively
large amount of manual labor to prepare food for customers. Often,
preparation of Chinese food requires intensive labor, such as
operating a wok, which requires constant movement or agitation of
the food to cook the food evenly and avoid burning. Some parts of
the Chinese food industry have seen a rise in cost of food labor
due to increases in wages and benefits in many major cities along
with a labor supply issue caused in part by increasing education
levels of the population. Moreover, many Chinese food restaurants
lack standardized processes employed by other restaurants types
(hamburger chains, for example), which could help offset the rising
costs of Chinese food production. A lack of standardized processes
and a reliance on manual labor make scaling of Chinese food (and
similar cuisine) restaurants relatively difficult.
[0003] There is a need in the art for improved apparatus and
processes for cooking food that heats the food evenly and properly,
avoids burning, and readily served in dishes or placed in
containers for delivery. There is a further need in the art for
improved apparatus and processes for preparing Chinese food that
heats it evenly and properly, avoids burning, and is readily served
in dishes or placed in containers for delivery.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale,
like numerals describe similar components in different views. Like
numerals having different letter suffixes represent different
instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally
various examples discussed in the present application, but are not
intended to be an exhaustive or exclusive collection of
examples.
[0005] FIG. 1A shows an isometric view of an automated cooking
system in a first state, according to one embodiment of the present
subject matter.
[0006] FIG. 1B shows an isometric view of an automated cooking
system in a second state, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0007] FIG. 2A shows a top isometric view of a portion of an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0008] FIG. 2B shows a side isometric view of a portion of an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0009] FIG. 2C shows a top view of a portion of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0010] FIG. 3A shows an exploded top isometric view of a portion of
an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0011] FIG. 3B shows an exploded side view of a portion of an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0012] FIG. 4 shows an exploded side isometric view of a portion of
an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0013] FIG. 5 shows side cross-sectional view of a portion of an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0014] FIG. 6A shows an isometric view of a portion of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0015] FIG. 6B shows an isometric view of a portion of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0016] FIG. 6C shows a side view of a portion of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0017] FIG. 7A shows a side cross-sectional view of a cooking
vessel of an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment
of the present subject matter.
[0018] FIG. 7B shows a side cross-sectional view of a cooking
vessel of an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment
of the present subject matter.
[0019] FIG. 8A shows a bottom isometric view of a cooking vessel of
an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0020] FIG. 8B shows a bottom isometric view of a cooking vessel of
an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0021] FIG. 9A shows a side cross-sectional view of a cooking
vessel of an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment
of the present subject matter.
[0022] FIG. 9B shows an isometric cross-sectional view of a cooking
vessel of an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment
of the present subject matter.
[0023] FIG. 10A shows an isometric view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0024] FIG. 10B shows an isometric view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0025] FIG. 10C shows a bottom view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0026] FIG. 10D shows a side view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0027] FIG. 10E shows a top view of a mixer of an automated cooking
system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0028] FIG. 10F shows a rear view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0029] FIG. 10G shows a cross-sectional view of a mixer of an
automated cooking system across indicators 10G-10G of FIG. 10F,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0030] FIG. 11A shows a top view of a food container, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0031] FIG. 11B shows a top view of a plurality of food containers,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0032] FIG. 12 shows a diagram of an automated cooking system,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0033] FIG. 13 shows a diagram of an automated cooking system,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0034] FIG. 14 shows a flow chart of a method of operating an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0035] FIG. 15 shows a flow chart of a method of operating an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0036] FIG. 16 shows a flow chart of a method of operating an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter.
[0037] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of architecture for an example
computing system used, according to at least one example of the
present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 18A shows an isometric view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0039] FIG. 18B shows a bottom view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0040] FIG. 18C shows an isometric view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
[0041] FIG. 18D shows a side view of a mixer of an automated
cooking system, according to one embodiment of the present subject
matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] Like many food service industries, the Chinese food service
industry requires a large amount of manual labor to prepare food
for customers. Often, preparation of Chinese food requires
intensive labor, such as operating a wok, which requires constant
movement or agitation of the food to cook the food evenly and avoid
burning. Some parts of the Chinese food industry have seen a rise
in cost of food labor due to increases in wages and benefits in
many major cities along with a labor supply issue caused in part by
increasing education levels of the population. Moreover, many
Chinese food restaurants lack standardized processes employed by
other restaurants types (hamburger chains, for example), which
could help offset the rising costs of Chinese food production. A
lack of standardized processes and a reliance on manual labor make
scaling of Chinese food (and similar cuisine) restaurants
relatively difficult.
[0043] This disclosure addresses these and other problems by
simplifying and automating several aspects of food production, such
as receiving orders, mixing ingredients, and cooking the food for
each customer. In various embodiments, the methods and processes
disclosed lend themselves especially well to the preparation of
Chinese food. In various embodiments, an automated cooking system
includes a housing and a cooking vessel, such as a pan or wok,
removably connected to the housing. The cooking system can further
include an induction heating device within the housing positioned
near the cooking vessel, where the induction heating device can
heat the cooking vessel using induction. A lid of the cooking
system can be coupled to the housing and movable between a covered
and an uncovered position, where the lid can cover the cooking
vessel in the covered position. The cooking system can further
include a radiant heater connected to the lid, where the radiant
heater can transfer radiant heat toward and to the cooking vessel
when the lid is in the closed position. In various embodiments, the
radiant and inductive heating apparatus are used in conjunction to
prepare food. In various embodiments, the radiant and inductive
heating apparatus are controlled by programs which enhance the
accuracy and repeatability of the food preparation. In various
embodiments, the programming is dependent on the type and quantity
of the food prepared.
[0044] This system and similar systems described further herein
help reduce the complexity of the food preparation process, by
enabling tight control of the cooking process through the use of
multiple heat types. In various embodiments, the system includes a
controller configured to operate one or more of a mixer of the
cooking vessel, the induction heater, the radiant heater, and a
convection heater based on a cooking algorithm to cook food within
the cooking vessel. The controller helps to provide consistent
and/or standard cooking procedures increase food quality and
consistency. In some cases, it may allow for preparation of food by
an attendant who does not require the level of skill and
understanding of the food being prepared, but can operate the
machine to produce a high quality and delicious food for the
consumer as if they had years of experience in such preparation.
Further, because a majority of the cooking operations can be
performed by the automated cooking system, the system can help
improve safety during cooking procedures.
[0045] Further variations of an automated cooking system according
to the present subject matter include a convection heater located
within the housing and configured to deliver hot air to the cooking
vessel to provide a third type of heat to the cooking vessel and
food. In various embodiments, the automated cooking system can also
include a mixer positioned within the cooking vessel, where the
mixer can rotate relative to the cooking vessel. The system can
include a motor located within the housing and operable to drive
the mixer to rotate.
[0046] In these examples, the automated cooking system includes the
controller configured to operate a cooking algorithm, where the
cooking algorithm is configured to, depending on the ingredients
within the cooking vessel, independently adjust a speed of the
motor, and heat produced by each of the induction heater, the
radiant heater, and the convection heater to cook the food within
the vessel. The cooking algorithm can also be configured to operate
the mixer in both rotational directions at various time intervals
during cooking.
[0047] Because these and other features discussed herein can
perform a large portion of required cooking operations, the
automated cooking system reduces the amount of training required to
deliver top-quality food, which can help reduce labor costs and
food prices. Also, because the cooking operations performed by the
automated cooking system can be tightly controlled, an amount of
oil used during cooking operations can be reduced, which can help
reduced waste, improve food quality, and improve healthiness over
traditional frying and cooking with a wok. Further, the automated
cooking process can help reduce operator (cook) exposure to open
flame and hot oil during cooking operations, which can create a
more enjoyable (cooler) and safer work environment.
[0048] Another aspect of various embodiments of this disclosure are
that they provide a data-driven platform where the cooking process
is integrated with a point-of-sale (POS) system, intermediate
computer system, and/or marketing platform to enable real-time data
analysis to guide decision making process for business, to help
reduce spoilage, increase efficiency, and drastically improve
customer experience by providing food that is cooked faster
(fresher) without reducing quality. The controller and/or
intermediate computer system can log data and analyze the data for
process and algorithm improvement. The controller and/or
intermediate computer system can also distribute updates to other
controllers and/or intermediate computer systems to help centralize
preparation procedures, improving food consistency and quality.
[0049] This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject
matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to
provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention.
The detailed description is included to provide further information
about the present patent application.
[0050] FIG. 1A shows an isometric view of an automated cooking
system 100 with an open lid, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. FIG. 1B shows an isometric view of the
automated cooking system 100 with a closed lid, according to one
embodiment of the present subject matter. FIGS. 1A and 1B are
discussed below concurrently.
[0051] The automated cooking system 100 can include a housing 102,
a cooking vessel 104, a lid 106, a radiant heater 108, an arm 110,
feet 112a-112d (only feet 112a-112c are visible in FIGS. 1A and
1B), a power line 114, a controller 115, a sensor 116, controls
118, and a convection heater 119. The housing 102 can include a
bracket 120, louvers 122, and a collar 124. The cooking vessel 104
can include a wok 126 and a handle 128. The lid (or cover) 106 can
include a spice port 130. The arm can include a door 132 and a
handle 134.
[0052] The housing 102 can be a rigid or semi-rigid body comprised
of materials such as metals, plastics, foams, elastomers, ceramics,
composites, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the housing
102 can be made of metals resistant to heat, such as steel and
steel alloys. In some examples, the housing can be made of
materials resistant to corrosion, such as stainless-steel alloys.
The housing 102 can include one or more internal insulation layers
configured to limit transfer of heat from the cooking system 100 to
an ambient environment, such as a kitchen or food preparation area.
The housing 102 can also include a frame or structure configured to
support the components within and connected to the housing 102.
[0053] The cooking vessel 104 can include the wok 126 and the
handle 128. The wok 126 can be a rigid or semi-rigid body comprised
of materials such as metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, or
combinations thereof. In some examples, the wok 126 can be
comprised of materials appropriate for heating food, while
resisting corrosion, such as carbon steel, cast iron, aluminum,
stainless steel alloys, or the like. In some examples, the wok 126
includes a non-stick coating, such as Perfluoroalkoxy. In various
embodiments, the wok 126 includes a non-stick
Polytetrafluoroethylene coating. In various embodiments the wok 126
includes various ceramics. Other non-stick coatings may be used
without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. In
various embodiments, combinations of non-stick coatings are
used.
[0054] The handle 128 can be can be a rigid or semi-rigid member
comprised of materials such as metals, plastics, foams, elastomers,
ceramics, composites, and combinations thereof. The handle 128 can
be sized and shaped to be grasped and used to open the lid 106. The
handle 128 is coupled to the wok 126 at a distal portion of the
handle 128.
[0055] The radiant heater 108 can be a heater connected to an inner
portion of the lid 106 and can be connected to the housing 102 via
the power line 114. In some examples, the power line 114 can
connect to the radiant heater 108 via the arm 110. The power line
114 can also connect to a power source (such as a transformer
within the housing 102) and can be powered using external AC or DC
power. In some examples, the housing 102 can encase a convective
heater 119 therein, which can be configured to provide hot air to
the cooking vessel using intake air from the louvers 122 and
discharging hot air through ports through the collar 124 and the
cooking vessel 104.
[0056] The feet 112 can be rigid or semi-rigid body comprised of
materials such as metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, or
combinations thereof. The feet 112 can be connected to a bottom
side of the housing 102 and can be configured to engage a floor
surface to support the automated cooking system 100. The automated
cooking system 100 can include four of the feet 112, but can
include 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or the like feet in other examples.
In some examples, the feet 112 can be adjustable to balance the
housing 102 and/or adjust a height thereof.
[0057] The sensor 116 can be an optical scanner or sensor
configured to read codes, such as bar codes and/or QR codes. In
some examples, the sensor 116 can be a communicative sensor such as
an electromagnetic sensor (for example, a near field communication
(NFC) sensor). The scan sensor 116 can be electrically connected to
the controller 115 located within the housing 102 (and/or a remote
system), as discussed in further detail below. The sensor 116 can
be configured to produce a scan signal based on a scan of a package
or item.
[0058] The controls 118 can extend through a front side or a front
panel of the housing 102 and can be connected to the controller 115
located within the housing 10. The controls 118 can be manually
operable to operate the automated cooking system 102 and can
include, for example, a power button, timer, heat settings, or the
like.
[0059] The controller 115 can be a programable controller, such as
a single or multi-board computer, a direct digital controller
(DDC), a microcontroller, or a programable logic controller (PLC).
In various embodiments, the controller is a dedicated device for
controlling the system. It includes a specific user interface for
cooking applications. In other examples the controller 115 can be
any computing device, such as a handheld computer, for example, a
smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, a desktop computer, or any other
computing device including a processor and wireless communication
capabilities. It need not be a dedicated device, but can execute
code adapted to perform the controller function, among other
things. In various embodiments the controller function is local. In
various embodiments, the controller is remote. In various
embodiments, the controller function can be performed locally or
remotely. In such embodiments, the cooking function can be tested
or illustrated by a remote user. In such embodiments, a remote user
can intervene in a cooking function if the local operator is busy,
or otherwise unable to. In various embodiments a remote monitoring
function is provided and a remote operator may determine that the
local function could benefit from remote intervention. In such
cases, the remote operator may take over control of the cooking
function, or merely optimize the cooking function. Various
authorization applications may be employed to make sure a remote
operator is authorized to intervene or control the cooking
function.
[0060] The bracket 120 can be connected to the housing and can
extend therefrom above a top surface of the housing. The bracket
120 can be configured to receive the arm 110 and to secure the arm
110 to the housing 102 using, for example, fasteners (bolts,
screws, rivets, hinges, or the like).
[0061] The louvers 122 can be openings in the housing 102
configured to intake ambient air and/or to exhaust air to the
ambient environment. The louvers 122 can be downturned to help
prevent fluids, such as grease and oil, from entering the housing
102.
[0062] The collar 124 can be a raised portion of the housing 102
protruding from a top portion of the housing 102. The collar 124
can have a substantially cylindrical shape in some examples, and
can have other shapes, such as a square prism, a rectangular prism,
a truncated cone, or the like. The collar 124 can include ports,
vents, and notches, as discussed below in further detail. The
collar 124 can be shaped complimentary to the cooking vessel 104,
such that the collar 124 can receive the cooking vessel therein and
can retain the cooking vessel 104 therein during operations. The
collar 124 can also include a radially outer lip configured to
engage the lid 106 to form a seal over the cooking vessel 104 to
help contain food, fluids, gasses, and heat during cooking
operations.
[0063] The lid 106 can be a rigid or semi-rigid body comprised of
multiple materials and can include a transparent portion (made of
glass or plastic, for example) for viewing food within the cooking
vessel 104. The lid (or cover) 106 can be connected to the arm 110
and can be pivotable about the bracket 120 to move the lid 106
between a position engaging the collar 124 and/or the cooking
vessel 104 (closed) and a position spaced apart from the collar 124
and/or the cooking vessel 104 (open). The lid 106 can include a
spice port 130 extending therethrough which can be alignable with
the door 132 of the arm 110 such that the door 110 can be opened
and closed to allow access to the spice port 130 when the lid 106
is in the closed position (for example, during cooking operations).
The handle 134 can be a rigid or semi-rigid member sized and shaped
to be grasped and actuated or operated. The handle 134 can be
coupled to the arm 110 near the lid 106 and can be operable to move
the arm 110 between the open and closed positions.
[0064] In operation of some examples, the automated cooking system
100 can be enabled using the controls 118 or via the controller 115
through a remote device. The automated cooking system 100 can
receive a cooking order and an algorithm or can retrieve a cooking
algorithm based on the received order. In response to the cooking
algorithm, the controller 115 can enable one or more of the radiant
heater 108, an inductive heater (discussed below), and the
convective heater 119 to heat food within the cooking vessel 104.
The controller 115 can also operate a mixer within the cooking
vessel to turn the food and prevent burning and clumping. When the
cooking operation is complete, the lid 106 can be opened and the
cooking vessel 104 can be removed for serving of the food and
cleaning of the cooking vessel 104, if necessary. The cooking
vessel 104 can be returned to its cooking position within the
collar 124, the lid 106 can be closed, and another cooking
operation can be performed. Additional structure and operations of
the automated cooking system 100 are discussed in the various FIGS.
below.
[0065] FIG. 2A shows a top isometric view of a portion of the
automated cooking system 100, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. FIG. 2B shows a side isometric view of a
portion of the automated cooking system 100, according to one
embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 2C shows a top view
of a portion of the automated cooking system 100, according to one
embodiment of the present subject matter. FIGS. 2A-2C are discussed
concurrently below. The automated cooking system 100 of FIGS. 2A-2C
can be consistent with FIGS. 1A-1B; additional details are
discussed with respect to FIGS. 2A-2C.
[0066] FIGS. 2A-2C show a top panel 136 of the housing 102 removed
therefrom. The top panel 136 can include mounts 138a and 138b
configured to receive the bracket 120 for mounting the arm 110 (and
the lid 106) to the top panel 136. The mounts 138a and 138b can
extend upward from a top surface 140 of the top panel 136 and can
be welded, fastened, or otherwise secured thereto.
[0067] Also shown is collar 124 extending upward from the top
surface 140 of the top panel 136. The collar 124 can include handle
notches 142a and 142b, which can receive the handle 128 of the
cooking vessel 104 therein. The notches 142a and 142b can allow the
cooking vessel 104 to engage the heating elements within the
housing 102 and can help to position the cooking vessel 104 such
that ports 144a-144d of the collar 124 align with ports of the
cooking vessel 104. The ports 144a-144d can be ports for
transferring air from the convective heater 119 within the housing
to the cooking vessel 104 for heating of food within the cooking
vessel 104 via convection.
[0068] FIG. 2A shows an inner wall 146 of the collar 124 which can
be sized to receive an inductive heater 148 therein. The inner wall
146 can also be sized to receive and contain the wok 126 of the
cooking vessel 104 therein. The inductive heater 148 can include a
top glass 150 and a housing 154 configured to support the top glass
150. The housing 154 can also include mounts 156, which can be
configured to receive fasteners therethrough for mounting the
inductive heater 148 to the collar 124.
[0069] FIG. 2B also shows the motor 160, which can include a shaft
162 extending therefrom and through a motor mount 158 where the
shaft 162 can connect to a drive spindle 152. The drive spindle 152
can extend through the housing 154 and the glass 152 to engage a
mixer within the cooking vessel 104, as discussed in further detail
below.
[0070] FIG. 3A shows an exploded top isometric view of a portion of
the automated cooking system 100, according to one embodiment of
the present subject matter. FIG. 3B shows an exploded side view of
a portion of the automated cooking system 100, according to one
embodiment of the present subject matter. FIGS. 3A-3B are discussed
concurrently below. The automated cooking system 100 of FIGS. 3A-3B
can be consistent with FIGS. 1A-2C; additional details are
discussed with respect to FIGS. 3A-3B.
[0071] FIGS. 3A and 3B show that the collar 124 can include a
flange 166 extending radially outward from an outer surface of the
collar 124. The flange 166 can be used to mount the collar 124 to
the top panel 136 at either the top surface 140 of the top panel
136 or an underside of the top panel 136.
[0072] FIGS. 3A and 3B also show a spindle seal 164, which can be
configured to surround the spindle 152 to form a seal at the glass
150. The spindle seal 164 can also engage the housing (or support)
154 to form a secondary seal, as discussed below in further
detail.
[0073] Also shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B are the components of an
induction heater 149. The induction heater 149 can include a
housing or support 154, a set of coils 170, and the glass 150. The
housing 154 can support the coils 170 therein from below and can
support the glass 150 thereon. The induction heater 149 can be
secured to the collar 124 and/or the top panel 136. In some
examples, the induction heater 149 can also be secured to a coil
bracket 176, where an inner ring 172 and an outer ring 174 can be
positioned between the coils 170 and the coil bracket 176 to form
gaskets or seals therebetween. The coil bracket 176 can include
flanges 178, which can be used to secure the coil support to the
top panel 136 and/or the collar 124.
[0074] The motor mount 158 can be secured to a bottom side of the
coil bracket 176 using motor mount flanges 180. The motor 160 can
be secured to a bottom side of the motor mount 158 such that the
shaft 162 extends through the motor mount 158. The shaft 162 can
also extend through (or partially through) a coupler 182, which can
also connect to the spindle 152. The coupler 182 can couple the
spindle 152 to the motor shaft 162 such that the spindle 152
rotates with the shaft of the motor 162.
[0075] FIG. 4 shows an exploded side isometric view of a portion of
the automated cooking system 100, according to one embodiment of
the present subject matter. The automated cooking system 100 of
FIG. 4 can be consistent with FIGS. 1A-3B; additional details are
discussed with respect to FIG. 3B.
[0076] FIG. 4 shows the spindle 152 in further detail. The spindle
152 can include an engagement portion 402, a seal portion 404, a
support portion 406, and a coupling portion 408. The spindle 152
can be a rigid or semi-rigid body comprised of materials such as
metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, or combinations thereof. In
some examples, the spindle 152 can be made of metals resistant to
heat and having a high strength and impact resistance for
transferring torque from the motor shaft 162 to a mixer, such as
steel and steel alloys. In some examples, the spindle 152 can be
made of materials resistant to corrosion, such as stainless-steel
alloys.
[0077] The engagement portion 402 can be supported by the seal
portion 404 and can be configured to engage a mixer as discussed in
FIGS. 8A and 8B below. The seal portion 404 can have a diameter
larger than the support portion 406 and can be configured to engage
the spindle seal 164 to help limit food and cooking fluids and
gasses from escaping from the cooking vessel 104 or collar 124 into
the induction heater 149. The support portion 406 can extend
through the spindle seal 146 and can engage a bearing, as discussed
in FIG. 5 below. The coupling portion 408 can have a reduced
diameter for extending through the bearing and coupling to the
shaft connector 182.
[0078] FIG. 4 also shows further details of the spindle seal 164,
which can include a top portion 410, a medial portion 412, an inner
portion 414, and a lower portion 416. The spindle seal 164 can be a
seal or gasket engageable with the spindle and other components of
the automated cooking system 100 to form one or more seals therein.
The spindle seal 164 can be comprised of one or more of silicone,
rubber, foams, other elastomers, or the like. The top portion 410
can be substantially flat or planar and configured to engage a
portion of the cooking vessel 104 to form a seal at the cooking
vessel. The top portion 410 can extend radially outward from the
medial portion 412 to fully cover a bore 418 of the glass 150,
where the medial portion 412 can extend into and engage the bore
418. The medial portion 418 can include multiple portions of
different diameters to form seals at the glass 150 and the support
154. The lower portion 416 can extend radially outward from the
medial portion 412 and can be configured to have an interference
fit with a bore 424 of a boss 426 of the support 154.
[0079] The support 154, as shown in FIG. 4 can include a glass
support surface 420, an outer support 422, a boss 424, and a boss
bore 426. The support 154 can be a rigid or semi-rigid body
comprised of materials such as metals, plastics, ceramics,
composites, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the support
154 can be comprised of materials able to resist relatively high
temperatures and unresponsive to induction from the coils 170, such
as titanium, ceramics, high temperature plastics, or the like.
[0080] The boss 424 can extend upward from the surface 420 of the
support 154 and can be generally circular or cylindrical, though
other shapes can be used. Similarly, the outer support 422 can
extend upward from a periphery of the surface 420 of the support
154 and can be generally circular or cylindrical, though other
shapes can be used. The boss 424 can define the bore 426 extending
through the support 154 from top to bottom. The boss 426 can be
configured to extend into the bore 418 of the glass 150 and the
glass can fit within the outer support 422 such that the surface
420 can engage a bottom surface of the glass 150 to provide
substantially planar contact between the glass 150 and the support
surface 420. The boss 426 and the outer support 422 can help limit
radial movement of the glass 150 with respect to the housing 154.
In some examples, a silicone or other adhesive can be applied
between the glass 150 and the housing 154 to secure the glass 150
and the housing 154 while creating a seal therebetween.
[0081] The coils 170 can be supported by a coil support 430 which
can be a rigid or semi-rigid body comprised of materials such as
metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, or combinations thereof. In
some examples, the coil support 430 can be comprised of materials
able to resist relatively high temperatures and unresponsive to
induction from the coils 170, such as titanium, ceramics, high
temperature plastics, or the like. The coils 170 can be induction
coils configured to transmit energy via induction to nearby ferrous
materials (or other materials responsive to induction).
[0082] The inner ring 172 and the outer ring 174 can be seals or
gaskets engageable with the coil support 430 to form seals between
the coil support 430 and the coil bracket 176. The inner ring 172
and the outer ring 174 can be comprised of one or more of silicone,
rubber, foams, other elastomers, or the like. The inner ring 172
can be sized to engage the coil support 430 adjacent a bore 431 of
the coil support to form a seal around the spindle 152 and to
support a radially inner portion of the housing 154. Similarly, the
outer ring 174 can be sized to engage the coil support 430 near a
periphery of the coil support 430 to form a seal around the
periphery of the coil support 430 at the coil bracket 176.
[0083] The outer ring 174, the mounts 156, and coil mounts 432 of
the coil support 430 can all be alignable to receive fasteners
therethrough for securing the outer ring 174 to a bottom side of
the coil mounts 432, the coil support 430 to the mounts 156 (via
the coil support mounts 432), and the housing 154 to the top panel
136 and/or the collar 124.
[0084] FIG. 5 shows a side cross-sectional view of a portion of the
automated cooking system 100 across indicators 5-5 of FIG. 2C,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. The
automated cooking system 100 of FIG. 4 can be consistent with FIGS.
1A-4; additional details are discussed with respect to FIG. 5.
[0085] FIG. 5 shows that the top panel 136 can include a bottom
surface 440 opposite the top surface 140. In some examples, the
flange 166 of the collar 124 can be mounted or secured to the
bottom surface 440 of the top panel 136. FIG. 5 also shows a bottom
panel 450 of the coil bracket 176, which can have a central bore
extending therethrough configured to receive a spindle bearing 442
through the bore. The spindle bearing 442 can help reduce
non-rotational movement of the spindle 152 with respect to the
collar 124 and the motor mount 158 to which the motor 160 is
mounted.
[0086] Also shown in FIG. 5 are a housing radial inner support 444
and a housing radial outer support 446. The housing radial inner
support 444 can be an inner wall or support of the coil housing 154
and can engage the inner seal 172 at a bottom portion of the
housing radial inner support 444 to form an inner seal between the
housing 154 and the bottom panel 450. Similarly, the housing radial
outer support 446 can be an outer wall or support of the coil
housing 154 and can engage the outer seal 174 at a bottom portion
of the housing radial outer support 446 to form an outer seal
between the housing 154 and the bottom panel 450.
[0087] The housing radial inner support 444, the housing radial
outer support 446, and a top portion of the housing 154 can form a
housing cavity 448 in which the coils 170 can be inserted to
position the coils 170 adjacent the coil support surface 120 and
the glass 150. Fasteners 452 can be screws, bolts, rivets, or the
like, and can be used to secure the motor mount 158 to the bottom
panel 450.
[0088] In some examples, the cooking system 100 can include one or
more temperature sensors 449, which can be connected to the
controller 116. As shown in FIG. 5, the temperature sensors 449 can
be positioned within the housing 102 and can be connected to the
glass 150, the coils 170, and the motor 160. The temperature
sensors 449 can each be configured to produce a temperature signal
based on a temperature of the component to which each of the
temperature sensors 449 are connected. In other examples, the
temperature sensors 449 can be positioned on other components. Each
of the temperature sensors 449 can be a thermistor, thermocouple,
resistance temperature detector, or the like.
[0089] In operation of some examples, the motor 160 can be operated
to rotate the shaft 162. The coupling portion 408 of the spindle
152, being coupled to shaft 162, can spin with the shaft 162, which
can rotate the engagement portion 402 of the spindle 152. The
engagement portion 452 can drive a mixer of the cooking vessel 104
to mix food therein, as discussed in further detail below. Before,
during, and/or after mixing of food, the induction coils 170 can
deliver energy to the wok 126 of the cooking vessel 104 to heat the
wok 126 and food therein.
[0090] During mixing and/or heating operations, the spindle seal
152 can help limit food, oils, and/or gasses from escaping from the
cooking vessel 104 and into the housing 102 by forming seals at
multiple points within the assemblies, as discussed above. The
inner seal 172 and outer seal 174 can also help to limit food,
oils, and/or gasses from escaping from the cooking vessel 104 and
into the housing 102.
[0091] FIG. 6A shows an isometric view of the cooking vessel 104 of
the automated cooking system 100 with a mixer removed, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 6B shows an
isometric view of the cooking vessel 104 of the automated cooking
system 100 with the mixer installed, according to one embodiment of
the present subject matter. FIG. 6C shows a side view of a portion
of the automated cooking system 100, according to one embodiment of
the present subject matter. FIGS. 6A-6C are discussed below
concurrently.
[0092] FIGS. 6A-6C show details of the cooking vessel 104,
including the wok 126 and the handle 128. Also shown in FIG. 6B is
a mixer 600, which can be removably coupled to the wok 126 and
rotatable therein to mix food and oil. In some examples, the mixer
600 can be driven to rotate in either direction by the motor 160
via the spindle 152, as discussed in further detail below.
[0093] The wok 126 can include a bottom portion 602, a side wall
604, an outer rim 606, deflectors 608a and 608b (collectively
referred to as deflectors 608), and spindle collar 610. The outer
rim 606 can include rim ports 612a-612c (collectively referred to
as the rim ports 612). Also shown is a mixer spindle 614.
[0094] The bottom portion 602 can be a rigid and substantially flat
or planar portion connected to the side wall 604 at a periphery of
the bottom portion. The side wall 604 can extend upward therefrom
and can partially form the deflectors 608, which can terminate
before the outer rim 606. The outer rim 606 can extend radially
outward from the side wall 604 and can include the rim ports
612a-612c extending therethrough. The rim ports 612a-612c can be
alignable with the ports 144 of the collar 124 such that the rim
ports 612 can receive air therethrough for delivery of hot air (or
fluid) into the cooking vessel 104 for convective heating of food
within the cooking vessel 104.
[0095] The deflectors 608 can extend radially inward from the side
wall 604 and can have geometric shape of a triangle with curved
segments from a top perspective, but can have other shapes in other
examples. From a three-dimensional perspective, the deflector 608
can have a shape of a curved triangular prism extending from the
wall 604. The deflector 608 can be spaced from the bottom portion
602 such that the mixer 600 can pass between the deflectors 608 and
the bottom portion, which can allow the deflectors 608 to scrape
food from the mixer 600 during rotation of the mixer 600. FIG. 6C
shows how the deflectors 608 can be formed from the sidewall 604
such that the sidewall 604 is a single piece, which can help
increase food containment during cooking operations. Operation of
the mixer 600 is discussed below in further detail.
[0096] The spindle collar 610 can be a raised portion of the bottom
portion 602, which can be substantially in the center of the bottom
portion 602 and can be configured to support the mixer spindle 614
therein and therethrough. The mixer spindle 614 can be coupled to
the spindle 152, as discussed below in further detail, and can be
coupled to the mixer 600 to drive the mixer 600 to rotate within
the wok 126 adjacent the bottom surface 602.
[0097] FIG. 7A shows a side cross-sectional view across indicators
7-7 of FIG. 6A of a cooking vessel 104 of an automated cooking
system with a mixer 600 removed, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. FIG. 7B shows a side cross-sectional view
across indicators 7-7 of FIG. 6A of the cooking vessel 104 of an
automated cooking system with the mixer 600 installed, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIGS. 7A and 7B are
discussed below concurrently. The cooking vessel 104 of FIGS. 7A
and 7B can be consistent with FIGS. 1A-6B; additional details are
discussed with respect to FIGS. 7A and 7B.
[0098] For example, the handle 128 can include a grip 702, which
can be comprised of an insulative material such as plastic. The
handle 128 can also include a tang 704, which can be a rigid or
semi-rigid member comprised of materials such as metals, plastics,
or the like. The tang 704 can extend into the grip 702 and can be
coupled to the wok 126 using fasteners 706, which can be screws,
bolts, rivets, or the like. The grip 702 can also include a bore
708, which can be used to hang the cooking vessel (for example for
drying) and a gripping portion 710, which can be ergonomically
shaped for holding of the grip 702 with a hand.
[0099] FIGS. 7A and 7B also show details of the mixer 600, the
deflectors 608, and the mixer spindle 614. The deflectors 608a and
608b can be comprised of portions of the wall 604 extending
radially inward toward a center of the wok 126. Each of the
deflectors 608 can be formed of three main portions from the
perspective of FIGS. 7A and 7B, a top portion 724, a medial portion
726, and a bottom portion 728. The top portion 724 can extend
radially inward from the side wall 604 and can be angled downward
to help contain food and liquids within the cooking vessel 104
during cooking operations. The bottom portion 728 can extend
radially inward from the side wall 604 and can be angled upward
toward the top portion 724. The medial portion can extend from the
bottom portion 728 to the top portion 724 and can be angled upward.
The angle of the bottom portion 728 can create a gap G between the
blade 712 and the deflector sized such that the bottom portion 728
of the deflector 608 can engage food particles and/or fluids that
are on top of the blade 712 to promote mixing and flipping of the
food within the cooking vessel during mixing operations. The medial
portion 726 can also engage food particles and/or fluids that are
on top of the blade 712 to promote mixing and flipping of the food
within the cooking vessel during mixing operations.
[0100] The mixer 600 can include a blade 712, a paddle 714, a hub
716, a cap 718, teeth 720, and a recess 721. The cap 718 can
include a coupler 722. The hub 716 can be at a rotational center of
the blade 600 and can be configured to connect to the mixer spindle
614.
[0101] The blade 712 and the paddle 714 can extend radially outward
from the hub 716. The blade 712 can extend to the wall 604 of the
wok 126, and can contact the wall 604, in some examples, at a tip
of the blade 712. In other examples, the blade 712 may not contact
the wall 604. The blade 712 can have a length such that the wall
604 of the of the cooking vessel 104 can be of a relatively short
distance d2 from a tip or leading edge of the blade 712, which can
allow the blade to scrape food from an inner surface of the wall
604. The paddle 714 can extend radially outward from the hub,
stopping short of the wall 604 at a distance d1, which can be
relatively larger than the distance d2, which can allow the paddle
714 to break down relatively larger portions of food adhered in a
group (bunches of food).
[0102] The mixer 600 can be coupled to the wok 126 at the spindle
collar 610. The spindle collar 610 can extend upward from the
bottom portion 602 of the wok 126 and can form a substantially
conical platform with a bore extending therethrough. The bore can
be sized to receive and retain the mixer spindle 614, as discussed
in further detail with respect to FIGS. 8A-9B.
[0103] The mixer spindle 614 can include a body 729, projections
730, a coupling bore 732, and one or more locking bores 734, which
can be smaller diameter bores coaxial with the coupling bore 732.
The coupling bore 732 can extend into the body 729 from a top side
of the mixer spindle 614 and can reduce down to one or more locking
bores 734. The projections 730 can extend upward from the body
729.
[0104] The mixer 600 can be placed on the mixer spindle 614 such
that the recess 721 of the mixer 600 covers the mixer spindle 614
causing the teeth 720 of the mixer 600 to engage the projections
730 of the mixer spindle 614. This engagement can allow transfer of
forces between the teeth 720 and the projections 730, which can
allow the mixer spindle 614 to drive the mixer 600 to rotate
therewith. The connection between the mixer 600 and the mixer
spindle 614 can be secured using the cap 718.
[0105] Once the teeth 720 of the mixer 600 engage the projections
730 of the mixer spindle 614, the coupler 722 can be inserted into
the mixer 600 such that the coupler 722 can extend into the
coupling bore 732. In some examples, the coupler 722 can include a
projection (such as a biased ball bearing) which can engage one or
more of the locking bores 734, creating an interference fit between
the coupler 722 and the locking bores 734. This engagement between
the coupler 722 and the locking bores 734 can limit upward movement
of the mixer 600 from the mixing spindle 614, helping to keep the
mixer 600 engaged with the mixing spindle 614 during mixing and
heating operations of the automated cooking system 100. The coupler
722 can be released from the coupler bore 732 (and the locking bore
734) by actuating a control, such as a button, which can be
positioned at a top portion of the coupler 722. Such actuation can
release engagement of the coupler 722 with the coupler bore 732 so
that the coupler 722 can be removed from the bore 732, allowing the
mixer 600 to be disengaged from the spindle 614 for cleaning and/or
repair. The cap 718 can engage the mixer 600 to cover and protect
the coupler 722 and the coupler bore 732. The cap 718 can be a
flexible material in some examples, such as one or more of a
plastic, silicone, or the like. Further details of the components
of the mixer 600 are discussed below with respect to FIGS.
10A-10G.
[0106] FIG. 8A shows a bottom isometric view of the cooking vessel
104 of an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of
the present subject matter. FIG. 8B shows a bottom isometric view
of the cooking vessel 104 of an automated cooking system, according
to one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIGS. 8A and 8B
are discussed below concurrently. The cooking vessel 104 of FIGS.
8A and 8B can be consistent with FIGS. 1A-7B; FIGS. 8A and 8B show
how the spindle 152 can engage the mixer spindle 614.
[0107] The collar 610 of the wok 126 can create a recess or bore
810 on an underside of the wok 126 from which a coupler 804 of the
mixing spindle 614 can extend downward. The coupler 804 can include
a bore 806 therein, which can have a star shape in some examples.
The bore 806 can have other shapes, such as hex, hexolubular, or
the like. In some examples, the bore 806 can be a 16-tooth star
bore. In any example, the bore 806 can be shaped complimentarily to
the engagement portion 402 such that teeth 808 of the engagement
portions can be configured to engage recesses of the bore 806 for
transfer of forces between the engagement portion 802 and the
mixing spindle 614, allowing the spindle 152 to drive the mixing
spindle 614 to rotate with respect to the bottom portion 602 of the
wok 126.
[0108] FIG. 9A shows a side cross-sectional view across indicators
9-9 of FIG. 8A of a cooking vessel of an automated cooking system,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 9B
shows an isometric cross-sectional view across indicators 9-9 of
FIG. 8A of a cooking vessel of an automated cooking system,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. The
cooking vessel 104 of FIGS. 9A and 9B can be consistent with FIGS.
1A-8B; FIGS. 9A and 9B show how the construction of the bottom of
the cooking vessel and how the spindle 152 engages the mixing
spindle 614.
[0109] The wok 126 of the cooking vessel 104 can include the bottom
portion 602, as discussed above, which can be substantially planar
member connected to the wall 604. A contact portion 902 can be
positioned below the bottom portion 602 and can be secured to the
bottom portion 902. A heat spreader 904 can be located between the
bottom portion 602 and the contact portion 902.
[0110] The bottom portion 602 and the contact portion 902 can be
made of a ferrous material (such as a stainless steel) configured
to heat up in response to induction from the set of coils 170. The
heat spreader 904 can be made of a material having a relatively
high thermal conductivity, such as one or more of silver, aluminum,
gold, copper, alloys thereof, or the like. The heat spreader 904
can contact both the contact portion 902 and the bottom portion
602. The heat spreader 904 can thereby be configured to transfer
heat from the contact portion 902 to the bottom portion 602 and can
help to equally distribute heat throughout the bottom portion 602
of the cooking vessel 104 during cooking operations, which can help
avoid hot spots in the bottom portion, helping to reduce burning of
food therein. The three-layer assembly of the bottom portion 602,
the heat spreader 904, and the contact portion 902 can help to
mimic a saute effect of the wok 126 during cooking operations.
[0111] FIGS. 9A and 9B also show additional details of how the
spindle 152 engages the mixing spindle 614. For example, FIGS. 9A
and 9B show the engagement portion 402 of the spindle 152 can be
inserted into the bore 806 of the coupler 804 until the seal
portion 404 contacts a body 906 of the coupler 804, which can help
to ensure engagement between the teeth 808 of the spindle 152 and
the bore 806.
[0112] FIG. 9B also shows additional details of the projections 730
of the mixing spindle 614, which can be circumferentially spaced
projections around a top portion of the spindle that extend
radially outward from the coupling bore 732. FIG. 9B further shows
a top bearing 908 and a bottom bearing 910 of the mixing spindle
614, which can engage the collar 610 from respective top and bottom
sides to retain the mixing spindle 614 on the collar 610 and can
provide a rotational bearing therefore. The top bearing 908 and the
bottom bearing 910 can be secured together through a threaded
interface in some examples, and can be secured in other ways in
other examples, such as by using fasteners, adhesive, or the
like.
[0113] FIG. 10A shows an isometric view of the mixer 600 of an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. FIG. 10B shows an isometric view of the
mixer 600 of an automated cooking system, according to one
embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 10C shows a bottom
view of the mixer 600 of an automated cooking system, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 10D shows a side
view of the mixer 600 of an automated cooking system, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 10E shows a top
view of the mixer 600 of an automated cooking system, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 10F shows a rear
view of the mixer 600 of an automated cooking system, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 10G shows a
cross-sectional view of the mixer 600 of an automated cooking
system across indicators 10G-10G of FIG. 10F, according to one
embodiment of the present subject matter. FIGS. 10A-10G are
discussed below concurrently. The mixer 600 can be consistent with
the mixer 600 of FIGS. 6B-9B; additional details of the mixer are
discussed with respect to FIGS. 10A-10G.
[0114] As discussed in the FIGS. above, the mixer 600 can include
the paddle 712, the blade 714, and the hub 716. The hub 716 can
include a recess 721 which can include teeth 720a-720d therein. The
paddle 712 can include edges 1002a and 1002b, and a tip 1004.
[0115] The mixer 600 can be a rigid or semi-rigid body comprised of
materials such as metals, plastics, foams, elastomers, ceramics,
composites, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the mixer
600 can be made of metals resistant to heat, such as steel and
steel alloys. In some examples, the mixer 600 can be monolithically
formed, such as by casting, machining, and/or three-dimensional
printing. In other examples, the mixer 600 can be comprised of
multiple components connected to each other. The mixer 600 can be
symmetric about a transverse axis of the mixer 600 and can be
asymmetric about a longitudinal axis of the mixer 600.
[0116] As discussed above, the paddle 712 can extend radially
outward from a base 1006 of the hub 716. The edges 1002 of the
paddle can extend outward and toward each other and can terminate
at the tip 1004, which can be rounded in some examples. The edges
1002a and 1002b can be substantially swept upward, as shown in FIG.
10E, as the edges 1002 extend from a bottom of the paddle 712 to a
top of the paddle 712, which can help to turn food over as the
paddle 712 contacts food within the cooking vessel 104 during
rotation of the mixer 600.
[0117] The hub 716 can include a base 1006 including the recess 721
and a top portion 1008. The top portion 1008 can include a stem
bore 1010, a cap bore 1012, and a lip 1014. The top portion 1008
can have a diameter smaller than the base 1006 such that the hub
716 can narrow diametrically as the hub 716 extends upward. The
stem bore 1010 can be configured to receive the coupler 722 therein
and therethrough for coupling of the coupler 722 to the mixing
spindle 614. The cap bore 1012 can be a bore extending from a top
of the top portion 1008 downward into the hub 716 and can be
configured to receive a portion of the cap 718 therein to help
secure the cap 718 to the hub 716. The lip 1014 can extend radially
outward from the top portion 1008 and can be configured to engage
an outer portion (719 of FIG. 7B) of the cap 718 to further secure
the cap 718 to the hub 716.
[0118] The blade 714 can include a spine 1016, edges 1018a and
1018b, a platform 1020, and a distal edge 1022. Each of the edges
1018a and 1018b can include wings 1024a and 1024b, respectively.
The edge 1022 can include a recessed portion 1026. FIGS. 10A-10G
also show radii of curvatures R1-R6.
[0119] The spine 1016 can be a top portion of the blade 714
extending radially outward from the hub 716 and connecting the
edges 1018a and 1018b. The spine 1016 can be flared outward at the
wings 1024a and 1024b to create the platform 1020 near the edge
1022. The edges 1018a and 1018b can also extend radially outward
from the hub 716 but can have a relatively small thickness away
from the spine 1016 and can be upward swept toward the spine 1016.
In some examples, the edge 1018a can have a radius of curvature R2
and the edge 1018b can have a radius of curvature R3. The radii of
curvature R2 and R3 can be between 180 and 380 millimeters (mm). In
some examples, the radii of curvature R2 and R3 can be between 260
and 300 mm. In some examples, the radii of curvature R2 and R3 can
be about 280 mm. In some examples, the radii of curvature R2 and R3
can be the same for a similar mixing effect on food during mixing
in both directions; however, in other examples, the radii of
curvature R2 and R3 can be different to, for example, vary an
effect on food within the wok 126 depending on the rotational
direction of the mixer 600.
[0120] As the edges 1018a and 1018b extend radially outward, the
edges 1018a and 1018b can flare into include wings 1024a and 1024b,
respectively. The radii of curvature between the edges 1018a and
1018b and their respective wings 1024a and 1024b can be R5 and R6,
respectively. The radii of curvature R5 and R6 can be between 20
and 60 mm in some examples and can be between 30 and 50 mm in other
examples. In some examples, the radii of curvature R5 and R6 can be
40 mm.
[0121] The wings 1024a and 1024b of the edges 1018a and 1018b can
terminate distally at the distal edge 1022, which can be configured
to engage the wall 604 of the wok 126, as discussed above. To
accommodate such contact, the distal edge 1022 can have a radius of
curvature R1, which can be configured to match a radius of
curvature of the wall 604 and can be between 75 and 160 mm. In some
examples, the radius of curvature R1 can be between 115 and 125 mm.
In some examples, the radius of curvature R1 can be 117 mm. The
edge 1022 can include the recessed portion 1026, which can be
diametrically smaller than the edge 1022 to limit a portion of the
edge 1022 that contacts the wall 604 during mixing operations, to
help reduce friction between the mixer 600 and the wall 604. The
spine 1016 can also be curved at a radius of curvature R4. In some
examples, spine 1016 can have a radius of curvature R4 between 180
and 380 millimeters (mm). In some examples, the radius of curvature
R4 can be between 260 and 300 mm. In some examples, the radius of
curvature R4 can be about 280 mm.
[0122] FIG. 10C also shows teeth 720a-720d, which can extend
downward from the hub 716 within the recess 721. In some examples,
there can be four of the teeth 720. In other examples, there can be
more or less teeth, such as 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, or
the like teeth. The teeth can be shaped to engage the projections
730, as discussed above, and can be spaced such that the teeth 720
can engage the projections 730 of the mixer 600 in multiple
orientations of the mixer 600 with respect to the mixing spindle
614, to make securing of the mixer 600 to the mixing spindle 614
faster and easier.
[0123] FIG. 11A shows atop view of a food container 1100, according
to one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 11B shows a
top view of the food container 1100, according to one embodiment of
the present subject matter. FIGS. 11A and 11B are discussed below
concurrently.
[0124] The container 1100 can include walls 1102 and a secondary
lid 1104. The walls 1102 can be comprised of rigid or semi-rigid
materials, such as foams, paper-products, plastics, or the like. In
some examples, the walls 1102 can be comprised of common recyclable
materials, such as cardboard. The secondary lid 1104 can be sized
and shaped to retain one or more wrapped baked goods (such as
fortune cookies) therein.
[0125] FIG. 11B shows the container 1100 with food containers
1106a-1106g positioned therein. In some examples, each of the food
containers 1106a-1106b can be hexagonal in shape from a top
perspective, allowing the food containers 1106a-1106b to be
arranged in the container 1100 between the walls 1102 such that
each of the food containers 1106a-1106b is supported by at least
four items (food containers 1106a-1106b and/or walls 1102). In some
examples, the container 1100 can also be hexagonal to promote such
an arrangement of the food containers 1106a-1106b within the
container 1100. Though the container 1100 and the food containers
1106a-1106b are discussed as being hexagonal, the container 1100
and the food containers 1106a-1106b can be other shapes such as
octagonal, rectangular, or the like.
[0126] In some examples, each of the food containers 1106a-1106b
can include couplers on an outside of each wall so that the food
containers 1106a-1106b can be connected to each other to help
prevent spills during transportation of the food containers
1106a-1106b and the container 1100.
[0127] FIG. 12 shows a diagram of an automated cooking system 1200,
according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. The
automated cooking system 1200 can include a point of sale device
1202, an intermediate system 1204, a first automated cooker 1206, a
second automated cooker 1208, and a third automated cooker 1210.
Also shown in FIG. 12 are food items 1212a-1212c, which can each
have a code 1214 thereon. Each of the automated cookers 1206-1210
can include a scan sensor 1216. Further shown in FIG. 12 is storage
container 1218 and cooking operations A, B, and C.
[0128] The point of sale device (POS) 1202 can be a device
including a user interface operable by customers and/or employees
of a restaurant, mobile food operation, or business. The
intermediate system 1204 can be a remote computing device or system
located within the restaurant or can be located remotely. The
intermediate system 1204 can be in communication with the point of
sale device 1202 through a wired and/or wireless connection. Both
the intermediate system 1204 and the point of sale device 1202 can
be a computer or computer system, as discussed below in FIG.
17.
[0129] The first automated cooker 1206, the second automated cooker
1208, and the third automated cooker 1210 can each be automated
cooking systems or devices consistent with FIGS. 10A-10G, discussed
above. Each of the first automated cooker 1206, the second
automated cooker 1208, and the third automated cooker 1210 can
include a controller and a communication device therein for
processing of information and communication with the intermediate
system 1204 and/or the point of sale device 1202. The controller
within each of the first automated cooker 1206, the second
automated cooker 1208, and the third automated cooker 1210 can be a
computer or computer system, as discussed below in FIG. 17.
[0130] The food items 1212a-1212c can each be packages of food or
other ingredients, such as oils, spices, sauces, or the like. The
packages can be individually sealed and can be in measured portions
for combination with other of the food items 1212a-1212c to create
a dish or order of food.
[0131] Each of the food items 1212a-1212c can have the code 1214
thereon. The code 1214 can be a bar code, a QR code, a
radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, or other visual,
optical, or electromagnetic identification device configured to
interact with the scan sensor 1216 of each of the first automated
cooker 1206, the second automated cooker 1208, and the third
automated cooker 1210.
[0132] The scan sensor 1216 can be an optical scanner or sensor
connected to each of the automated cookers 1206-1210. The scan
sensor 1216 can be configured to read codes, such as bar codes
and/or QR codes. In some examples, the sensor 1216 can be
communicative sensors such as electromagnetic sensors (for example,
a near field communication (NFC) sensor). The scan sensor 1216 can
be electrically connected to a controller located within any of the
automated cookers 1206-1210. The sensor 116 can be configured to
produce a scan signal based on a scan of a package or item.
[0133] The storage container 1218 can be a refrigerator, freezer,
dry storage, or other container configured to store the food items
1212a-1212c for a long, medium, or short term. In some examples,
the storage container 1218 can be in communication with the
intermediate system 1204 and/or the point of sale device 1202, as
discussed in FIG. 13 below.
[0134] In operation of some examples, a user can select an order at
the POS device 1202, which can be transmitted to the intermediate
system 1204. The intermediate system 1204 can communicate with each
of the automated cookers 1206-1210 to determine which if any of the
automated cookers 1206-1210 are available to complete the order.
When no cookers are available, the intermediate system 1204 can
create a queue or list of orders requiring assignment to one of the
automated cookers 1206-1210. The intermediate system 1204 can then
assign orders of the queue based on one or more parameters such as
a duration in the queue of each order and a time required to
complete each order. When cookers are available, the intermediate
system 1204 can assign an order to a cooker.
[0135] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the second automated cooker
1208 can be performing the cooking operation B, and can be
therefore unavailable to perform an operation for a new order. The
order can then be assigned to, for example, the first automated
cooker 1206 where the order is fried rice (#6). The automated
cooker 1206 may then be unavailable for a cooking operation until
the fried rice (#6) A is complete. Another order can be received by
the POS device 1202, which can be transmitted to the intermediate
system 1204. The intermediate system 1204 can communicate with each
of the automated cookers 1206-1210 to determine which if any of the
automated cookers 1206-1210 are available to complete the order.
Because the first automated cooker 1206 is performing the cooking
operation A and the second automated cooker 1208 is performing the
cooking operation B, the intermediate system 1204 can assign the
order to the third automated cooker 1210. The third automated
cooker 1210 can then perform the cooking operation C, chicken with
broccoli, #8.
[0136] During the cooking operation A, food items 1212 can be
loaded into a cooking vessel of the automated cooker 1206 (such as
the cooking vessel 104) and the automated cooker 1206 can perform
heating and mixing operations to cook the food items to complete
the order. During loading of the food items 1212 into the cooking
vessel, each of the food items 1212 can be scanned as they are
loaded into the automated cooker 1206 at the scan sensor 1216. For
example, the code 1214 of each food item 1212 can be scanned by the
scan sensor 1216, which can produce a scan signal that can be
transmitted to a controller within the automated cooker 1206 and/or
the intermediate system 1204.
[0137] The controller can receive the scan signal and can determine
whether the food item 1202 is the correct food item for the cooking
operation A (fried rice #6). If, for example, the food item 1202 is
incorrect, the controller can produce an alert that can be
transmitted to the intermediate system 1204 to alert an operator.
Similarly, the controller can enable one or more indicators (such
as a light or speaker) on the automated cooker 1206 to indicate to
the operator that the food item 1202 is incorrect. Further, the
controller can prevent cooking operations from proceeding when the
food item 1202 is incorrect.
[0138] When the food item 1202 is correct, cooking operations can
proceed. When the controller determines that all of the food items
1202 have been received, heating and mixing operations of the
automated cooker 1206 can begin. In some examples, as discussed in
further detail below with respect to FIGS. 14-17, the controller
can adjust the cooking operations based on the order and/or the
food item 1202 as indicated by the scan signal received from the
scan sensor 1216. When the cooking operation is complete the
automated cooker 1206 can produce an alert transmittable to the POS
1202, the intermediate system 1204, and/or can produce an audio or
visual alert to notify an operator or user that the operation is
complete. Such an alert sent to the POS can indicate that the order
is ready for pick up and/or delivery.
[0139] In some examples, the intermediate system 1204 can be
omitted and one or more POS devices can select and monitor the
first automated cookers 1206-1210. In other examples, the
intermediate system 1204 can update cooking and assignment
algorithms that can be distributed to each of the automated cookers
1206-1210. The intermediate system 1204 can also transmit updates
to other controllers and/or intermediate computer systems at
different locations to help centralize preparation procedures,
improving food consistency and quality.
[0140] FIG. 13 shows a diagram of an automated cooking system
1200A, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
The automated cooking system 1200A can be consistent with the
automated cooking system 1200 of FIG. 12, but the automated cooking
system 1200A can include storage container 1220.
[0141] The storage container 1220 can be configured to store food
items, similar to the storage container 1218. However, the storage
container 1220 can include one or more shelves 1222a-1222d, where
each of the shelves 1222a-1222d can be configured to indicate which
food products should be selected by a user or operator. In some
examples, the storage container 1220 can be in communication with a
controller of each of the automated cookers 1206-1210, the POS
device 1202, and/or the intermediate system 1204.
[0142] In operation, when an order is received by the POS device
1202. the order is communicated to the intermediate device 1204
and/or the automated cookers 1206-1210. The POS device 1202, the
intermediate device 1204, and/or the automated cookers 1206-1210
can transmit to the storage container 1220 the order received at
the POS device 1202 or the food items required to create the order.
In some examples, the storage container 1220 can determine the
required food items based on the order.
[0143] Once the food items required to fill the order are known by
the storage container 1220, the storage container 1220 can produce
an indication to an operator which items are to be selected. For
example, the storage container 1220 can indicate at which shelf and
which compartment a food item is to be selected from. For example,
when order #6 is received at the automated cooker 1206, the storage
container 1220 can illuminate lights of compartments 1224a and
1224c of the shelf 1222c, where the compartments 1224b, 1224d, and
1224e can remain un-illuminated.
[0144] In some examples, the compartments 1224a-1224e can include
multiple lights configured to emit multiple indication colors based
on the automated cookers to which the order is associate and/or
based on the food item within the compartment. In one example, a
different color can be associated with each of the automated cooker
1206-1210.
[0145] FIG. 14 shows a flow chart of a method 1400 of operating an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. The steps or operations of the method 1400
are illustrated in a particular order for convenience and clarity;
many of the discussed operations can be performed in a different
sequence or in parallel without materially impacting other
operations. The method 1400 as discussed includes operations
performed by multiple different actors, devices, and/or systems. It
is understood that subsets of the operations discussed in the
method 1400 can be attributable to a single actor, device, or
system could be considered a separate standalone process or method.
The method 1400 can be a method of receiving and processing an
order for cooking using automated cooking systems discussed
above.
[0146] The method 1400 can begin at step 1402, where a food order
can be received at a point of sale device. For example, a food
order can be received at the point of sale device 1202. At step
1404, the order can be transmitted from the point of sale device to
the intermediate system. For example, the order can be transmitted
from the point of sale device 1202 to the intermediate system
1204.
[0147] At step 1406, the intermediate system can select an
available automated cooking system from a plurality of automated
cooking systems and assign the order thereto. For example, the
intermediate system 1204 can select an available automated cooking
system, such as the automated cooker 1206 from the automated
cooking systems 1206-1210 and the intermediate system 1204 assign
the order to the automated cooker 1206.
[0148] At step 1408, the order and/or order instructions can be
transmitted from the intermediate system to the assigned automated
cooking system. For example, the order and/or order instructions
can be transmitted from the intermediate system 1204 to the
assigned automated cooking system 1206.
[0149] At step 1410, a scanner can scan a code indicative of a
first food item added to a cooking vessel removably connected to a
housing of the cooking system. For example, the scanner 1216 can
scan the code 1214, which can be indicative of the food item 1212,
which can be added to the cooking vessel 104, which can be
removably connected to the housing 102 of the cooking system 100.
At step 1412, the automated cooking system can enable cooking
operations. For example, the automated cooking system 1206 can
enable cooking operations, such as the cooking operation A.
[0150] FIG. 15 shows a flow chart of a method 1500 of operating an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. The method 1500 can be a method of
operating any of the automated cooking systems discussed above.
[0151] The method 1500 can begin at step 1502, where convective
heat can be applied to the cooking vessel using a convection heater
located within the housing and configured to deliver hot air to the
cooking vessel. For example, convective heat can be applied to the
cooking vessel 104 using the convection heater 119 located within
the housing 102 and configured to deliver hot air to the cooking
vessel 104.
[0152] At step 1504, the cooking vessel can be heated using radiant
heat. For example, the cooking vessel 104 can be heated using
radiant heat from the radiant heater 108.
[0153] At step 1506, a cooking vessel connected to the housing can
be heated using an induction heating device positioned within the
housing proximate the cooking vessel. For example, the cooking
vessel 104 can be connected to the housing 102 and can be heated
using an induction heating device 170 positioned within the housing
102 proximate the cooking vessel 104.
[0154] At step 1508, a mixing rotational direction of a mixer can
be determined based on the food order. For example, a rotational
direction of the mixer 600 can be determined based on an order
received at the POS device 1202. At step 1510, a mixing speed can
be determined based on the food order. For example, a mixing
direction of the mixer 600 can be determined based on an order
received at the POS device 1202. At step 1512, a rotational
direction interval can be determined using the controller based on
the food order. For example, a rotational direction interval of the
mixer 600 can be determined based on an order received at the POS
device 1202.
[0155] In some examples, the controller 119 can determine a mixing
time to operate the mixer 600 based on the food order. In some
examples, the motor 160 can be operated to rotate the mixer 600
based on the food order, where the mixing of the food can be
achieved by operating the mixer 600 in the mixing rotational
direction and for the mixing time determined. In some examples, the
mixing rotational direction can be varied over time.
[0156] In some examples, the controller 115 can determine an
intensity of radiant heat to be used based on the food order and
the controller 115 can enable the radiant heater 108 to heat the
cooking vessel 104, when the lid is in a closed position.
Similarly, the controller 115 can determine an intensity of
inductive heat to be used based on the food order and the
controller 115 can enable the inductive heater 170 to heat the
cooking vessel 104 at the intensity of inductive heat. Also, the
controller 115 can determine an intensity of inductive heat to be
used based on the food order and the controller 115 can enable the
inductive heater 170 to heat the cooking vessel 104 at the
intensity of inductive heat. In some examples, the controller 115
can determine an amount of time to apply each of the convective
heat, the inductive heat, and the radiant heat, based on the food
order.
[0157] In some examples, the food order can be received at a
storage system, such as the storage device 1222. The storage system
can enable an indicator of a compartment or a plurality of
compartments within the storage system based on the food order, the
indicator to indicate to a user a food item to be selected.
[0158] FIG. 16 shows a flow chart of a method 1600 of operating an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. The method 1600 can be a method of
modifying a cooking algorithm using automated cooking systems
discussed above.
[0159] At step 1602, temperatures of components within the
automated cooking system can be monitored. At step 1604, time of
food being cooked within the automated cooking system (e.g.,
automated cooking system 100) can be monitored. At step 1606,
airflow of the automated cooking system can be monitored. At step
1608, a speed of the mixer can be monitored.
[0160] At step 1610, a program or algorithm for cooking food at the
automated cooking system can be modified based on one or more of
the temperatures of components within the automated cooking system,
time of food being cooked within the automated cooking system,
airflow of the convection heater, and the speed of the mixer. At
step 1612, an alarm can be produced by the automated cooking system
when the cooking operation is complete or based on any of the other
conditions monitored.
[0161] FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer
system machine (machine) upon which any one or more of the previous
techniques may be performed or facilitated by. The computer system
machine 1700 specifically may be used in connection with
facilitating the operations of the controller 115, the POS device
1202, the intermediate computing system 1204, or any other
computing platform described or referred to herein. For example,
the computer system 1700 can be connected to (or part of) the
intermediate computing system 1204 for receipt of and processing of
signals to generate and analyze inputs and to create outputs, as
well as to compare and analyze inputs and outputs (such as those of
FIGS. 12-16) discussed herein.
[0162] In alternative embodiments, the machine operates as a
standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to other
machines. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate in the
capacity of either a server or a client machine in server-client
network environments, or it may act as a peer machine in
peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environments. The machine may
be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a smartphone, a web
appliance, or any machine capable of executing instructions
(sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that
machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the
term "machine" shall also be taken to include any collection of
machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple
sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the
methodologies discussed herein.
[0163] Example computer system 1700 includes a processor 1702
(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit
(GPU) or both), a main memory 1704 and a static memory 1706, which
communicate with each other via a link 808 (e.g., an interlink,
bus, etc.). The computer system 1700 may further include a video
display unit 1710, an alphanumeric input device 1712 (e.g., a
keyboard), and a user interface (UI) navigation device 1714 (e.g.,
a mouse). In an example, the video display unit 1710, input device
1712 and UI navigation device 1714 are a touch screen display. The
computer system 1700 may additionally include a storage device 1716
(e.g., a drive unit), a signal generation device 1718 (e.g., a
speaker), and a network interface device 1720 which may operably
communicate with a communications network 1726 using wired or
wireless communications hardware. The computer system 1700 may
further include one or more human input sensors 1728 configured to
obtain input (including non-contact human input) in accordance with
input recognition and detection techniques. The human input sensors
1728 may include a camera, microphone, barcode reader, RFID reader,
near field communications reader, or other sensor producing data
for purposes of input. The computer system 1700 may further include
an output controller 1730, such as a serial (e.g., universal serial
bus (USB), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., infrared
(IR)) connection to communicate or control one or more peripheral
devices (e.g., a printer, card reader, etc.).
[0164] The storage device 1716 may include a machine-readable
medium 1722 on which is stored one or more sets of data structures
or instructions 1724 (e.g., software) embodying or utilized by any
one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The
instructions 1724 may also reside, completely or at least
partially, within the main memory 1704, static memory 1706, and/or
within the processor 1702 during execution thereof by the computer
system 1700, with the main memory 1704, static memory 1706, and the
processor 1702 also constituting machine-readable media.
[0165] While the machine-readable medium 1722 is illustrated in an
example embodiment to be a single medium, the term
"machine-readable medium" may include a single medium or multiple
media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or
associated caches and servers) that store the one or more
instructions 1724. The term "machine-readable medium" shall also be
taken to include any tangible medium (e.g., a non-transitory
medium) that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying
instructions for execution by the computer system 1700 and that
cause the computer system 1700 to perform any one or more of the
methodologies of the present disclosure or that is capable of
storing, encoding or carrying data structures utilized by or
associated with such instructions. The term "machine-readable
medium" shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited
to, solid-state memories, and optical and magnetic media. Specific
examples of machine-readable media include non-volatile memory,
including, by way of example, semiconductor memory devices (e.g.,
Electrically Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically
Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM)) and flash memory
devices; magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable
disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks.
[0166] The instructions 1724 may further be transmitted or received
over a communications network 1726 using a transmission medium via
the network interface device 1720 utilizing any one of a number of
well-known transfer protocols (e.g., frame relay, internet protocol
(IP), transmission control protocol (TCP), user datagram protocol
(UDP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP)). Examples of
communication networks include a local area network (LAN), wide
area network (WAN), the Internet, mobile telephone networks, Plain
Old Telephone (POTS) networks, and wireless data networks (e.g.,
Wi-Fi, 3G, and 4G LTE/LTE-A or 5G networks). The term "transmission
medium" shall be taken to include any intangible medium that is
capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for
execution by the computing system 700, and includes digital or
analog communications signals or other intangible medium to
facilitate communication of such software.
[0167] As an additional example, computing embodiments described
herein may be implemented in one or a combination of hardware,
firmware, and software. Embodiments may also be implemented as
instructions stored on a computer-readable storage device, which
may be read and executed by at least one processor to perform the
operations described herein. A computer-readable storage device may
include any non-transitory mechanism for storing information in a
form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). For example, a
computer-readable storage device may include read-only memory
(ROM), random-access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media,
optical storage media, flash-memory devices, and other storage
devices and media.
[0168] FIG. 18A shows an isometric view of a mixer 1800 of an
automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of the
present subject matter. FIG. 18B shows a bottom view of the mixer
1800 of an automated cooking system, according to one embodiment of
the present subject matter. FIG. 18C shows an isometric view of the
mixer 1800 of an automated cooking system, according to one
embodiment of the present subject matter. FIG. 18D shows a side
view of the mixer 1800 of an automated cooking system, according to
one embodiment of the present subject matter. FIGS. 18A-18D are
discussed concurrently below.
[0169] The mixer 1800 can be similar to the mixer 600 discussed
above with respect to FIGS. 6B-9B and 10A-10G; however, further
details and optional features are described with respect to the
mixer 1800. The mixer 1800 can include a blade 1812, a paddle 1814,
and a hub 1816. The hub 1816 can include a recess 1821. The blade
1812 can include a distal edge 1822 and the paddle 1814 can include
a tip 1824. The mixer 1800 can also include a bottom surface 1826,
which can include a paddle bottom surface 1828, a hub bottom
surface 1230, and a paddle bottom surface 1832. The blade 1812 can
further include a blade stabilizer bore 1834 and the paddle 1814
can further include a paddle stabilizer bore 1836. The mixer 1800
can further include stabilizers 1838 and 1840.
[0170] The mixer 1800 can be a rigid or semi-rigid body comprised
of materials such as metals, plastics, foams, elastomers, ceramics,
composites, or combinations thereof. The mixer 1800 can be made of
food-safe metals resistant to heat, such as iron, steel alloys, or
the like. As discussed above with respect to the mixer 600, the
paddle 1812 can extend radially outward from the hub 1816 and can
form the bottom paddle surface 1832. Similarly, the blade 1814 can
extend radially outward from the hub 1816 and can form the bottom
blade surface 1828. The hub 1816 can include the bottom base
surface surrounding the recess 1821. The bottom surface 1826 can be
relatively smooth and planar or flat to reduce friction between the
mixer 1800 and the pan. In some examples, the bottom surface 1828
can be contoured to match the bottom portion 602 of the wok
126.
[0171] As shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, the blade 1812 can include
the blade stabilizer bore 1834 and the paddle 1814 can include the
paddle stabilizer bore 1836. The blade stabilizer bore 1834 can
extend into the bottom blade surface 1828 and into the blade 1814
where the blade stabilizer bore 1834 can terminate within the blade
1814 before extending therethrough. Similarly, the paddle
stabilizer bore 1836 can extend into the bottom paddle surface 1832
and into the paddle 1812 where the paddle stabilizer bore 1836 can
terminate within the blade paddle 1812 before extending
therethrough.
[0172] Each of the stabilizer 1838 and the stabilizer 1840 can be a
rigid or semi-rigid body comprised materials such as one or more of
metals, plastics, foams, elastomers, ceramics, composites, or the
like. The stabilizers 1838 and 1840 can be inserted into the
stabilizer bores 1834 and 1836, respectively. The stabilizers 1838
and 1840 can be secured in the stabilizer bores 1834 and 1836,
respectively, via one or more of friction fit, adhesive, fastener,
or the like. In some examples, the stabilizers 1838 and 1840 can be
unsecured in the stabilizer bores 1834 and 1836, but held in place
by the weight of the mixer 1800 such that the stabilizers 1838 and
1840 are captivated between the respective stabilizer bores 1834
and 1836 and the bottom portion 602 of the wok 126.
[0173] In operation of some examples, the stabilizers 1838 and 1840
can contact the bottom portion 602 of the wok 126 when the mixer
1800 is secured within the wok 126. When the mixer is in operation
(spinning or rotating), the stabilizers 1838 and 1840 can provide
stability for the mixer 1800 with respect to the wok 126 by
contacting the bottom portion 602. That is, the stabilizers 1838
and 1840 help prevent non-rotational movement of the mixer 1800
during mixing operations. Also, because the stabilizers 1838 and
1840 can be made of low-friction materials, the stabilizers can
help reduce power necessary to spin the mixer 1800 within the wok
126.
[0174] The stabilizers 1838 and 1840 can be positioned radially
away from the hub 216 such as to provide contact points between the
stabilizers 1838 and 1840 away from the hub 1816. Because the hub
1816 supports the mixer 1800 away from the bottom portion 602 of
the wok 126, rubbing or contact between the mixer 1800 and bottom
portion 602 is most likely to occur at the ends of the mixer due to
flexing or bending. Placement of the stabilizers 1838 and 1840 away
from the hub can help prevent such flexing of the mixer 1800 and
resultant contact between the mixer 1800 and the wok 126, helping
to reduce wear of the mixer 1800 and the wok 126.
[0175] Also, as shown in FIG. 18C, each of the stabilizers can have
a contact surface 1842, a bevel 1844, and a side wall 1846. The
side walls 1846a and 1846b of the stabilizers 1838 and 1840,
respectively, can be sized to fit within the stabilizer bores 1834
and 1836, respectively. The bevel 1844 can connect the contact
surface 1842 to the sidewall 1846, which can reduce the probability
of an outer edge of the stabilizers 1838 and 1840 from contacting
the bottom portion 602 of the wok 126, further helping to reduce
wear of the bottom portion 602.
[0176] The stabilizers 1838 and 1840 can have around (or
cylindrical) shape, as shown in FIGS. 18C and 18D. The stabilizers
1838 and 1840 can have other shapes in other examples, such as a
rectangular prism, a triangular prism, truncated prisms, or the
like. Though two stabilizers 1838 and 1840 are shown in FIGS.
18C-18D, more or less stabilizers can be used, such as 1, 3, 4, 5,
6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, or the like.
[0177] It should be understood that the functional units or
capabilities described in this specification may have been referred
to or labeled as components or modules, in order to more
particularly emphasize their implementation independence. Component
or modules may be implemented in any combination of hardware
circuits, programmable hardware devices, other discrete components.
Components or modules may also be implemented in software for
execution by various types of processors. An identified component
or module of executable code may, for instance, comprise one or
more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which
may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, or
function. Nevertheless, the executables of an identified component
or module need not be physically located together, but may comprise
disparate instructions stored in different locations which, when
joined logically together, comprise the component or module and
achieve the stated purpose for the component or module. Indeed, a
component or module of executable code may be a single instruction,
or many instructions, and may even be distributed over several
different code segments, among different programs, and across
several memory devices.
[0178] Similarly, operational data may be identified and
illustrated herein within components or modules, and may be
embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable
type of data structure. The operational data may be collected as a
single data set, or may be distributed over different locations
including over different storage devices, and may exist, at least
partially, merely as electronic signals on a system or network. The
components or modules may be passive or active, including agents
operable to perform desired functions.
Notes and Examples
[0179] The following, non-limiting examples, detail certain aspects
of the present subject matter to solve the challenges and provide
the benefits discussed herein, among others.
[0180] Example 1 is an automated cooking system comprising: a
housing; a cooking vessel removably connected to the housing; an
induction heating device within the housing proximate the cooking
vessel, the induction heating device configured to heat the cooking
vessel using induction; a lid coupled to the housing and movable
between a covered and an uncovered position, the lid covering the
cooking vessel in the covered position; and a radiant heater
connected to the lid, the radiant heater configured to transfer
radiant heat toward the cooking vessel when the lid is in the
closed position.
[0181] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally
includes wherein the cooking vessel is a wok.
[0182] In Example 3, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 1-2 optionally include a convection heater configured to
deliver hot air to the cooking vessel.
[0183] In Example 4, the subject matter of Example 3 optionally
includes wherein the housing includes a collar protruding from the
housing, the collar configured to support the cooking vessel within
the housing.
[0184] In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 4 optionally
includes wherein the cooking vessel includes a plurality of ports
connected to the conduction heater, the ports configured to provide
the hot air from the conduction heater into the cooking vessel.
[0185] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 optionally
includes wherein the ports are located on a top face of the collar
and are configured to discharge the hot air toward the lid to
circulate within the cooking vessel.
[0186] In Example 7, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 2-6 optionally include a mixer positioned within the
cooking vessel, the mixer configured to rotate relative to the
cooking vessel; and a motor located within the housing and operable
to drive the mixer to rotate.
[0187] In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 optionally
includes a glass support positioned between the induction heating
device and the cooking vessel, the glass support in contact with
the cooking vessel to form a seal at the cooking vessel.
[0188] In Example 9, the subject matter of Example 8 optionally
includes wherein the glass support includes a bore therethrough,
the bore configured to receive a spindle therethrough to connect
the mixer to the motor.
[0189] In Example 10, the subject matter of Example 9 optionally
includes wherein the induction heating device includes a bore
therethrough, the bore of the induction heating device aligned with
the bore of the glass support to receive the motor spindle
therethrough.
[0190] In Example 11, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 1-10 optionally include wherein the lid further comprises
a seasoning port resealably openable to receive items into the
cooking vessel when the lid is in the covered position.
[0191] In Example 12, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 1-11 optionally include a convection heater located within
the housing and configured to deliver hot air to the cooking
vessel; a mixer located within the cooking vessel, the mixer
configured to rotate relative to the cooking vessel; and a motor
located within the housing and operable to drive the mixer to
rotate.
[0192] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 optionally
includes a controller configured to operate the motor, the
induction heater, the radiant heater, and the convection heater
based on a cooking algorithm to cook food within the cooking
vessel.
[0193] In Example 14, the subject matter of Example 13 optionally
includes wherein the cooking algorithm is configured to, depending
on the ingredients within the cooking vessel, independently adjust
a speed of the motor, and heat produced by each of the induction
heater, the radiant heater, and the convection heater to cook the
food within the vessel, and wherein the cooking algorithm is
configured to operate the mixer in both rotational directions at
various time intervals.
[0194] In Example 15, the subject matter of Example 14 optionally
includes a scanner connected to an outer portion of the housing,
the scanner configured to scan food item labels and transmit a scan
signal to the controller based on the food item labels.
[0195] In Example 16, the subject matter of Example 15 optionally
includes wherein the controller is configured to adjust the cooking
algorithm based on the scan signal.
[0196] Example 17 is an automated cooking system comprising: a
housing; a cooking vessel removably connected to the housing; an
induction heating device within the housing proximate the cooking
vessel, the induction heating device configured to heat the cooking
vessel using induction; a lid coupled to the housing and movable
between a covered and an uncovered position, the lid covering the
cooking vessel in the covered position; a radiant heater connected
to the lid, the radiant heater configured to transfer radiant heat
toward the cooking vessel when the lid is in the closed position; a
convection heater located within the housing and configured to
deliver hot air to the cooking vessel; a mixer located within the
cooking vessel, the mixer configured to rotate relative to the
cooking vessel; and a motor located within the housing and operable
to drive the mixer to rotate.
[0197] In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 optionally
includes a controller configured to operate the motor, the
induction heater, the radiant heater, and the convection heater
based on a cooking algorithm to cook food within the cooking
vessel; wherein the cooking algorithm is configured to, depending
on the ingredients within the cooking vessel, independently adjust
a speed of the motor, and heat produced by each of the induction
heater, the radiant heater, and the convection heater to cook the
food within the vessel, and wherein the cooking algorithm is
configured to operate the mixer in both rotational directions at
various time intervals.
[0198] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally
includes a scanner connected to an outer portion of the housing,
the scanner configured to scan food item labels and transmit a scan
signal to the controller based on the food item labels.
[0199] In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 19 optionally
includes a conveyer for automatically and programmably introducing
one or more ingredients to the cooking vessel.
[0200] Example 21 is a cooking assembly comprising: a cooking
vessel comprising: a bottom contact portion including a first bore
therethrough; a heating portion spaced above the bottom contact
portion and including a second bore therethrough; and a sidewall
connected to the heating portion and together with the heating
portion configured to retain food in the cooking vessel; a mixer
located within the cooking vessel, the mixer configured to rotate
relative to the heating portion; and a motor connected to the mixer
via the first bore and the second bore to drive the mixer to
rotate.
[0201] In Example 22, the subject matter of Example 21 optionally
includes wherein the cooking vessel further comprises a heat
spreader positioned between and in contact with the bottom support
portion and the heating portion.
[0202] In Example 23, the subject matter of Example 22 optionally
includes wherein the bottom support portion and the heating portion
are substantially comprised of a stainless-steel alloy and the heat
spreader is substantially comprised of aluminum.
[0203] In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 optionally
includes an induction heating device positioned below the bottom
contact portion, the induction heating device configured to heat
the bottom support portion and the heating portion using induction;
and a glass support positioned between the induction heating device
and bottom support portion.
[0204] In Example 25, the subject matter of Example 24 optionally
includes wherein the glass support includes a bore therethrough,
and wherein the induction heating device includes a bore
therethrough, the bore of the induction heating device aligned with
the bore of the glass support to receive a motor spindle
therethrough.
[0205] In Example 26, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 21-25 optionally include wherein the mixer further
comprises a hub and a blade extending radially from the hub, the
blade rotatable with the hub to engage the heating portion and the
sidewall to mix food within the cooking vessel.
[0206] In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 optionally
includes wherein the mixer further comprises a paddle extending
radially from the hub opposite the blade, the blade having a blade
length substantially matching a distance between the hub and the
sidewall, and the paddle having a paddle length smaller than the
blade length.
[0207] In Example 28, the subject matter of Example 27 optionally
includes wherein the mixer is symmetric about a transverse axis of
the mixer and is asymmetric about a longitudinal axis of the
mixer.
[0208] In Example 29, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 27-28 optionally include wherein a distal portion of the
blade is flared.
[0209] In Example 30, the subject matter of Example 29 optionally
includes wherein the blade includes a spine extending from the hub
to a tip of the blade.
[0210] In Example 31, the subject matter of Example 30 optionally
includes wherein the blade includes a first edge positioned on a
first side of the spine and a second edge positioned on a second
side of the spine opposite the first side.
[0211] In Example 32, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 30-31 optionally include wherein the first edge has a
radius of curvature between the hub and a distal tip and where in
the radius of curvature is about 180 and 380 millimeters.
[0212] In Example 33, the subject matter of Example 32 optionally
includes wherein the first edge and the second edge are swept
upwards.
[0213] In Example 34, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 27-33 optionally include wherein the cooking vessel
further comprises a deflector extending radially inward from the
sidewall toward the hub of the mixer, the deflector configured to
engage the food during mixing operations.
[0214] In Example 35, the subject matter of Example 34 optionally
includes wherein the deflector is positioned above the heating
portion such that the blade passes between the heating portion and
the deflector when the blade rotates relative to the heating
portion.
[0215] In Example 36, the subject matter of Example 35 optionally
includes wherein the deflector is positioned above the heating
portion such that a distance between the blade and the deflector is
small enough to allow the deflector to scrape food off the blade
when the blade passes under the deflector during mixing of the
food.
[0216] In Example 37, the subject matter of Example 36 optionally
includes wherein a distance between the deflector and the hub is
greater than the paddle length.
[0217] In Example 38, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 36-37 optionally include wherein the deflector has a
geometric shape of a curved triangular prism.
[0218] Example 39 is a cooking assembly comprising: a cooking
vessel comprising: a bottom contact portion including a first bore
therethrough; a heating portion spaced above the bottom contact
portion and including a second bore therethrough; and a sidewall
connected to the heating portion and together with the heating
portion configured to retain food in the cooking vessel; a mixer
located within the cooking vessel, the mixer configured to rotate
relative to the heating portion, the mixer including a hub and a
blade extending radially from the hub, the blade rotatable with the
hub to engage the heating portion and the sidewall to mix food
within the cooking vessel.
[0219] In Example 40, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 37-39 optionally include wherein a distal portion of the
blade is flared; wherein the blade includes a spine extending from
the hub to a tip of the blade; wherein the blade includes a first
edge positioned on a first side of the spine and a second edge
positioned on a second side of the spine opposite the first side;
wherein the first edge has a radius of curvature between the hub
and a distal tip and where in the radius of curvature is about 180
and 380 millimeters; and, wherein the first edge and the second
edge are swept upwards.
[0220] Example 41 is a method of operating an automated cooking
system, the method comprising: receiving, from a point of sale
device, a food order at an automated cooking system including a
housing; heating a cooking vessel connected to the housing using an
induction heating device positioned within the housing proximate
the cooking vessel; heating the cooking vessel using a radiant
heater connected to a lid that is connected to the heating vessel,
when the lid is in a closed position; and producing an alert when
cooking the food order is complete.
[0221] In Example 42, the subject matter of Example 41 optionally
includes wherein heating the cooking vessel is controlled by a
controller configured to operate the induction heater and the
radiant heater.
[0222] In Example 43, the subject matter of Example 42 optionally
includes determining, using the controller, an intensity of
inductive heat based on the food order; and heating the cooking
vessel at the intensity of inductive heat.
[0223] In Example 44, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 42-43 optionally include determining, using the
controller, an intensity of radiant heat based on the food order;
and heating the cooking vessel at the intensity of radiant
heat.
[0224] In Example 45, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 41-44 optionally include applying convective heat to the
cooking vessel using a convection heater located within the housing
and configured to deliver hot air to the cooking vessel.
[0225] In Example 46, the subject matter of Example 45 optionally
includes determining, using the controller, an intensity of
inductive heat based on the food order; and heating the cooking
vessel at the intensity of inductive heat.
[0226] In Example 47, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 45-46 optionally include determining, using the
controller, an amount of time to apply each of the convective heat,
the inductive heat, and the radiant heat, based on the food
oder.
[0227] In Example 48, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 42-47 optionally include mixing, using a mixer positioned
within the cooking vessel, food within the cooking vessel; and
operating a motor located within the housing to drive the mixer
based on the food order.
[0228] In Example 49, the subject matter of Example 48 optionally
includes determining, using the controller, a mixing time based on
the food order.
[0229] In Example 50, the subject matter of Example 49 optionally
includes determining, using the controller, a mixing rotational
direction based on the food order; and mixing the food in the
mixing rotational direction and for the mixing time.
[0230] In Example 51, the subject matter of Example 50 optionally
includes determining, using the controller, rotational direction
interval based on the food order.
[0231] In Example 52, the subject matter of Example 51 optionally
includes varying mixing rotational direction of the mixer over
time.
[0232] In Example 53, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 42-52 optionally include receiving the food order at an
intermediary computer system.
[0233] In Example 54, the subject matter of Example 53 optionally
includes selecting, at intermediate system, an available automated
cooking system from a plurality of automated cooking systems; and
assigning the food order to the available automated cooking
system.
[0234] In Example 55, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 53-54 optionally include receiving the food order at a
storage system.
[0235] In Example 56, the subject matter of Example 55 optionally
includes enabling an indicator of a compartment or a plurality of
compartments within the storage system based on the food order, the
indicator to indicate to a user a food item to be selected.
[0236] In Example 57, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 42-56 optionally include transmitting the order from the
point of sale device to the intermediary system.
[0237] In Example 58, the subject matter of anyone or more of
Examples 42-57 optionally include determining, using the
controller, an intensity of inductive heat based on the food order;
heating the cooking vessel at the intensity of inductive heat;
determining, using the controller, an intensity of radiant heat
based on the food order; heating the cooking vessel at the
intensity of radiant heat; applying convective heat to the cooking
vessel using a convection heater located within the housing and
configured to deliver hot air to the cooking vessel.
[0238] Example 59 is a method of operating an automated cooking
system, the method comprising: receiving, from a point of sale
device, an order including a list of ingredients; receiving, from a
scanner, a code indicative of a first food item added to a cooking
vessel removably connected to a housing of the cooking system;
applying inductive heat to heat the cooking vessel using an
induction heating device positioned within the housing proximate
the cooking vessel; applying radiant heat to the radiant heater
connected to the lid, the radiant heater configured to transfer
radiant heat toward the cooking vessel when the lid is in the
closed position.
[0239] In Example 57, the subject matter of Example 60 optionally
includes introducing, automatically, one or more ingredients to the
cooking vessel using a programmably controlled conveyor.
[0240] In Example 61, the apparatuses or method of anyone or any
combination of Examples 1-60 can optionally be configured such that
all elements or options recited are available to use or select
from.
[0241] The above detailed description includes references to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed
description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific
embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These
embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such
examples can include elements in addition to those shown or
described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples
in which only those elements shown or described are provided.
Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any
combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or
one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular
example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other
examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described
herein.
[0242] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document
and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this
document controls.
[0243] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this
document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
[0244] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and
not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one
or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each
other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary
skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract
is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. .sctn. 1.72(b), to allow the
reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure.
It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to
interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the
above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped
together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be
interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is
essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in
less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus,
the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed
Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on
its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such
embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations
or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined
with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of
equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
* * * * *